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Wednesday, October 21, 2009

These distinct long agate beads (largest is 86 mm x 8 mm) are believed to come from South East Asia and are often identified as being 1000 years old or more (more evidence is needed to prove this). The material was carefully selected to showcase the natural crystalline stripe in the centre of each bead. Many examples have gold end caps. They have wonderful reddish hues when held to the light.

●Blog Owner●

James Wainwright has been studying and collecting beads for more than 20 years. One of his greatest interests is the dZi beads of Tibet and the many other types of stone beads found within the Himalayan regions. The prized bronze artefacts known in Tibet as "Thokcha" have also inspired his appreciation of Tibetan amulets in all their myriad forms.

James has made numerous pilgrimages throughout India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, often for many months at a time. He was ordained as a Buddhist monk by Tai Situpa Rinpoche in the 1990s and for several years he lived and worked at the Tibetan Monastery called Kagyu Samye Ling. During these years he was able to deepen his understanding of Tibetan iconography, ritual and meditation practice. He now lives in Cornwall in the South West of England, with his family. He founded the Tibetan Dharma store called Garuda Trading in 1999. This is now one of the few sources (outside of Asia) where collectors can find genuine ancient beads and other Himalayan treasures.